NAIROBI, Kenya, April 27 – The government has made progress in integrating micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the digital economy, according to a study by the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE).
The study, which was undertaken alongside the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), shows that the Kenya Kwanza administration scored 57 percent for its efforts to up-skill MSMEs.
Likewise, it scored 40 percent for addressing digitization costs and 51 percent for cyber security initiatives.
“Digital economic transformation plays a significant role in the global stage as a driver of innovation and competitiveness as well as determining the future global economic environment,” said CIPE Program Lead Lim Hazel.
“Digital economic transformation plays a significant role in the global stage as a driver of innovation and competitiveness as well as determining the future global economic environment.”
On the flip side, the study reveals that MSMEs still face an array of challenges, including limited digital skills and awareness, high internet and associated equipment costs, and cyber security concerns.
“Empowering MSMEs in the digital economy requires a targeted approach that addresses their unique challenges and needs,” said KEPSA Foundation Executive Director Gloria Dike.
“Without a clear focus on MSMEs, the broader policy dialogue on the digital economy risks leaving behind the very businesses that are essential to economic growth and prosperity.”
KEPSA and CIPE agreed that the digital economy has proven to be a cardinal driver of the country’s economic growth, hence the need to bolster its growth.
